Black Friday Decoded

November 20, 2015
By Michelle Conerly

For some, the secret behind Black Friday shopping has remained for decades. For others, it’s unlocked a world of wonder and bounty each November. And for the few chosen who have figured out the mystery, they’ve sworn to protect it and utilize its powers to bring joy to others.

But if you’re looking for total shopping enlightenment, allow us to leave some subtle clues for you to piece together the mystery.

First, make sure to do your research. If you’re looking to purchase a hot-ticket item this year, be certain it’s the brand you want. It’s even wise to “pre-shop”—to scope out what you want before the big day hits so that you know exactly where to get it.

For those with military base access, that means heading to the nearest Exchange to see if you can find those must-haves at a lower price.

Joy Archibeque, store manager at the Navy Exchange’s main store, said their prices are normally, on average, about 20 percent lower than if you were to look off base. But come Black Friday, shoppers can expect even larger discounts Friday through Sunday.

“I couldn’t begin to give you all the deals we’re offering,” said Archibeque. “It’s almost everything that will be on sale in the store. Some of the items will be special purchase, and most items are a significant percentage off.”

Second, be on the lookout for small ways to save a few dollars here and there. Looking on your favorite stores’ social media sites like Facebook or Instagram can help you save a buck or two. Some stores will post pertinent information like store opening hours or special coupons and deals on the web prior to and on Black Friday. Also, some stores reward loyal customers who have or sign up for a store credit card such as a Macy’s card.

Third, never forget the reason for the season. At the end of the day, you’ve previewed, piled, and purchased a multitude of items from all over the island, but it’s the smiles on your relatives’ faces that make all the hard work and effort worthwhile. Don’t forget to spend the majority of your time with them over the long weekend—or bring them along to make lasting memories.
Charles McJohn, leasing and marketing manager of the Agana Shopping Center, said ASC will celebrate its 38th anniversary on Nov. 27 by holding a drawing for five major prizes valued at about $1,000 a piece. At the same time, on the second floor, the St. Fidelis Friary will also premiere its annual Christmas Village across from Express Care so that families who are finished shopping can spend some quality time together.

“It’s fantastic,” said McJohn. “We’re happy to have them at the Agana Shopping Center.”

Put these pieces together, and you’ll be one step closer to revealing the secret behind Black Friday shopping.


Other tips

– Make sure to get enough rest before heading out. Eat something substantial and drink plenty of water so that you can power through those last minute sales.
– Don’t overdo it. If it comes down to losing a limb or losing out on a deal, make sure to be practical. Always keep safety first when shopping in large crowds on busy days.
– Don’t miss out on cyber Monday. Although not every store has a physical location on Guam, take advantage of the online sales come cyber Monday.

Store Hours for Nov. 27

-Agana Shopping Center 10 a.m to 8 p.m.
-Guam Premiere Outlets 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
-Navy Exchange 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
-Macy’s 6 p.m. Thanksgiving Day to 10 p.m.
-KMART 24 hours
-Micronesia Mall 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
-Home Depot 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
-Anderson Exchange 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.